The recent work on Staley Park demolished a long-standing tot lot that served families in downtown Frederick for decades. The former playground was shaded, fenced, and specifically suited to toddlers and preschool-aged children. It served as a community hub, complete with benches, tables, and a sandbox that kept toddlers entertained for hours.

The City provided limited notice about the extent of the changes that were to be made to the park, and the community was not given a meaningful opportunity to participate in the decision to remove and replace this unique neighborhood lifeline.

We ask the City of Frederick to restore a dedicated play space for toddlers and young children in the same area of Staley Park, with fencing, shade, seating, and age-appropriate play opportunities similar in function to the former tot lot. We also ask that residents and park users be included in the design process so that any replacement responds to the needs of the families who use it.

We further ask the City to publicly review the process used for the Staley Park renovation and establish a consistent approach to community engagement before substantial renovation, removal, or replacement of neighborhood park facilities. Please sign this petition to support restoring the Staley Park Tot Lot and giving the community a meaningful role in determining what replaces it. Every signature counts.